The inaugural programme of the Ashtalakshmi Darshan Youth Exchange Programme was held at Nagaland University, Medziphema Campus on February 2, 2026. The initiative, organised by the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER) and North East Council (NEC), is being hosted at the campus from February 1 to 14, 2026.
Altogether 40 students and four teacher in-charges from Kerala and Ladakh joined faculty members, officers, and students of Nagaland University for the exchange programme.
The event was chaired by Prof. J. Longkumer, Associate Dean (Students Welfare) and nodal officer of the programme. Prof. Pauline Alila, Dean, School of Agricultural Sciences, delivered the welcome address.
Som Kamei, planning advisor, NEC, in his special address urged participants to embrace the opportunity to learn diverse cultures and experience the hospitality of Nagaland.
He noted that the programme was a key initiative championed by Union DoNER Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia to connect youth across India with the Northeast.
Prof. Dipak Sinha, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Medziphema Campus, applauded the students for their participation and encouraged them to be ambassadors of cultural exchange between the North East Region and the rest of the country.
Dr. Kevinituo Bier, Assistant Professor, Department of Soil Science, outlined the itinerary, while presentations were given by Neipusimeu Yalie and Watisenla Longkumer. Visiting student representatives also highlighted the attractions of their respective states.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. S. Pavan, Assistant Professor, Department of Entomology, Medziphema Campus.
Ashtalakshmi Darshan youth exchange Prog underway at Nagaland University
DIMAPUR